Fr. Eduardo Scarel, O.Carm., during his visit to Dominican, with Sr. Jane Remson, O. Carm., Main Representative to the Carmelite NGO that has special status with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council; Jill Cabes, Vice President of Dominican Catholic Identity; and Matthew Foss, Science Department Chair.

During a New Orleans visit in March, world-renowned atmospheric scientist Fr. Eduardo Scarel, O. Carm., known as Pope Francis’ climatologist, returned to St. Mary’s Dominican High School for a presentation on climate change and faith. It was Fr. Scarel’s second visit to Dominican. In January 2016, he shared research and insights on climate change and the care of the poor and nature.

Speaking to Dominican’s biology, history, physics, and religion classes, he spoke on, “Environmental Justice as Seen Through the Lens of Laudato Si’.” Written in 2015 by Pope Francis, Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home, Fr. Scarel noted that it is the first encyclical in church history focused exclusively on care for the environment and nature, and a call for social and environmental justice.  The Argentinian priest said his talk was designed to inspire a wide audience – students, academicians, and anyone interested in how faith and scientific issues of climate change intersect.

Fr. Scarel told the students, “Climate change is not just beliefs or opinions. It is based on scientific facts and the need for dialogue. My hope is that you and other young people are inspired to look for more information, have dialogue and be part of change.”

The Carmelite NGO created a Curriculum on Laudato Si’ For Secondary Schools. The lessons enable teachers to incorporate Laudato Si’ into the entire high school curriculum. It is available to all schools, including non-Catholic school, throughout the world.